Comparison of Nicotine Replacement Therapy and Electronic Cigarettes for Smoking Cessation in Pakistan

Launched by STRATEGIC HEALTH RESEARCH LIMITED · Sep 26, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking to compare two methods to help people quit smoking: nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and electronic cigarettes (EC). Smoking is a big issue in Pakistan, and while NRT is available, it's often too expensive for many smokers. On the other hand, electronic cigarettes are becoming more popular and are generally more affordable. The study will involve 438 adult smokers who want to quit and will randomly assign them to receive either NRT or EC. The main goal is to find out which method is more effective in helping people stop smoking after one year.

To be eligible for the trial, participants need to be at least 18 years old, currently smoke, and express a desire to quit. They should also be able to understand the study instructions in Urdu or English. However, pregnant or breastfeeding women, those already using NRT or EC, or those not willing to quit will not be able to participate. This research aims to provide valuable information that could help improve smoking cessation support in Pakistan and develop better policies to assist smokers in quitting.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Adults (18 years or older).
• • Current-smokers presenting to a cessation clinic expressing a desire to quit smoking.
• • Has capacity to consent.
• • Can read and understand the instructions in Urdu and/or English and follow the study instructions and procedures.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
• • Currently using EC or NRT products.
• • Already enrolled in another similar study.
• • Not willing to quit.
• • Patients who have had a recent cardiovascular event like unstable angina, stroke or myocardial infarction in the past 2 weeks.